Pochettino was able to keep Tottenham together during the summer when big clubs were trying to sign several key players. But for how long?
After producing some of the finest moments at the beginning of the season, it was no surprise that Mauricio Pochettino’s side was widely tipped to challenge for the Premier League title. But Tottenham has now dropped down from the Premier League top four, taking just five points in their last six games.
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There’s no doubt that Pochettino has assembled a fantastic squad, one that’s full of energy and intelligence. But issues have to be addressed.
The Spurs lack leaders, players who’ll guide them through periods when they aren’t playing their best. There are times in any season when the team needs to be pushed to the limit. And that applies now to the Spurs, a team that is having difficulty breaking down teams, especially at home.
The team looks vulnerable at the back when they try to press high in the opposition half. That happens at unexpected times, too. Pressing tactics have cost them points because they tend to leave spaces for opponents to exploit.
The defensive high line has also raised questions. The back three of Sanchez, Dier, and Vertonghen often position themselves in the opponent half when they’re pressing high. Of course, you’re probably not going to keep a clean sheet with that kind of tactic. As soon as the opponent regains possession, players will utilize spaces at the back to hit you on the break.
Courtesy: Tottenham Hotspur
But I’m not quite sure how they’ll keep it tight at the back without injured Victor Wanyama and Toby Alderweireld. Still, though, injuries are no excuse. Managers have to put their trust in the players they have available.
As Pochettino looks for a way out of his predicament, he also has to convince Spurs’ faithful that he has what it takes to survive the test of character and mentality. But, in all fairness, Spurs have really done well in the Champions League Group Stage. Tottenham finished on top of the Group that includes Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund.
But I think there’s evidence that participating in the Champions League, combined with domestic competitions, has taken its toll. It will be interesting to see whether players have the hunger and desire to respond to their recent dip in form as they go into December’s hectic period.
That brings me to the issue raised by Danny Rose last August. The England international criticized the club’s inability to match wages paid to players of their “Big Six” rivals. But, to his credit, Pochettino was able to keep his squad together during the summer when big clubs were trying to sign several key players. The Argentine convinced some of those players to stay, even though they will earn far less by staying compared to what they would have earned by leaving.
Yet, the bottom line is clear: Spurs don’t look any closer to winning silverware at the moment. The recent dip in form might trigger exit thoughts in some players. And, if the chances of playing in the Champions League and winning trophies are more assured away from the new White Hart Lane, then we might begin to see movement of key players away from the club.
